Play Therapy

Children 3-12

The Association for Play Therapy defines play therapy as "the systematic use of a theoretical model to establish an interpersonal process wherein trained play therapists use the therapeutic powers of play to help clients prevent or resolve psychosocial difficulties and achieve optimal growth and development."

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More simply, play therapy is a way of being with the child that honors their unique developmental level and looks for ways of helping in the “language” of the child – play.  

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Play Therapy may be used as a primary intervention or as supportive therapy for:

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• Behavioral problems, such as anger management, school refusal, school anxiety, peer difficulties, grief and loss, divorce and abandonment, and crisis and trauma.

• Behavioral disorders, such as anxiety, depression, attention deficit hyperactivity (ADHD), autism or pervasive developmental, academic and social developmental, physical and learning disabilities, and conduct disorders.

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Research suggests that Play Therapy is an effective mental health approach, regardless of age, gender, or the nature of the problem, and works best when a parent, family member, or caretaker is actively involved in the treatment process. 

Parents and caregivers are welcome to ask questions, learn new parenting skills, and bring 'special play time' into their daily home routines by participating in sessions.